A Look at the Electro-Harmonix “Clone” Legacy
Electro-Harmonix (EHX) has a long-standing reputation for producing some of the most iconic effects pedals in music history. One of their most famous designs is the Small Clone, an analog chorus pedal that gained widespread recognition, in part due to Kurt Cobain’s use of it with Nirvana. The Clone Theory, another EHX chorus pedal from the 1970s, was also known for its rich modulation and was used by legendary bassists like Peter Hook of Joy Division and New Order.
The Bass Clone takes inspiration from this lineage, tailoring the classic EHX chorus sound specifically for bass players. By tweaking the circuitry to maintain clarity and low-end punch, EHX has created a chorus pedal that adds depth and dimension without sacrificing the fundamental bass frequencies.
Why Chorus is an Iconic Bass Effect
Chorus is one of the most beloved effects in bass history, particularly in post-punk, new wave, and alternative rock. It thickens and widens the sound by modulating the signal and blending it with a slightly delayed and pitch-modulated version. This creates a shimmering, wave-like effect that enhances melodic playing and adds movement to sustained notes. Bassists such as Peter Hook, Duff McKagan, and Juan Alderete have famously used chorus to define their unique tones.
Chorus is especially useful in three main contexts:
- Melodic Basslines – It adds a dreamy, atmospheric quality to bass melodies.
- Chords & Harmonics – It enhances clarity and sustain in chordal playing.
- Thickening Tone in a Mix – It provides extra depth without overpowering other instruments.
Exploring the Bass Clone’s Controls
The Bass Clone is a simple yet powerful pedal, offering a range of tone-shaping options tailored for bassists. Here’s a breakdown of its controls:
- Depth – Adjusts the intensity of the chorus effect, from subtle shimmer to deep modulation.
- Rate – Controls the speed of the modulation, affecting how quickly the pitch fluctuates.
- Bass & Treble EQ – Unlike standard chorus pedals, the Bass Clone includes separate Bass and Treble knobs, allowing players to sculpt their tone and retain low-end clarity.
- Crossover Switch – A key feature that rolls off low-end frequencies in the chorus signal while keeping the dry bass signal intact. This prevents the low end from becoming muddy and maintains punchy, well-defined bass tones.
How It Performs
The Bass Clone delivers lush, analog chorus tones that work exceptionally well in a variety of musical settings. It retains the fundamental strength of a bass signal while adding spaciousness and movement. The crossover switch is particularly useful, as it ensures that the effect doesn’t interfere with the essential low-end frequencies. Whether you’re playing intricate melodies, ambient passages, or thick, driving basslines, the Bass Clone enhances your tone without overwhelming it.
Final Thoughts
For bassists looking to explore chorus without losing low-end clarity, the Electro-Harmonix Bass Clone is an outstanding choice. It combines the legendary EHX chorus sound with modern features tailored for bass, making it a versatile and affordable addition to any pedalboard. Whether you’re aiming for post-punk atmospherics, grunge-inspired modulation, or just a touch of extra warmth in your sound, the Bass Clone is a pedal worth considering.
